So a couple of months before I started my sabbatical, I got an email from Andrew, a friend and colleague, with the simple text “Any interest?” – and a link. The longest non-stop canoe race in the world it said. Starting in Devizes and finishing just downstream of Westminster Bridge – 125 miles long and 77 portages. It went on to say that the race is a severe test of skill and stamina……

Following up our Slapton Sands exploits last month, Geoff and I headed off to Anglesey for some expert tuition from James Stevenson at Adventure Elements in how to deal with moving water, tide races and overfalls.

As I packed up the car ready to leave, Tanya did point out that I have a habit of spending more time in the car than on the water on these kayak trips. With a 400 miles journey ahead of me she had a fair point.